COGTA Fikile Xasa has welcomed the arrests of twelve (12) iingcibi in various parts of the Eastern Cape Province for unlawful circumcision.
MEC Xasa said there were eighteen (18) dockets that have been opened for unlawful circumcision and nineteen (19) inquest dockets opened. The total number of cases opened as at beginning of the summer traditional initiation season by the SAPS stands at thirty-seven (37), he said.
The twelve arrests include bogus iingcibi, a parent and a grandfather in Amathole, Chris Hani and OR Tambo District municipalities, said MEC Xasa.
“Law enforcement is one of our pillars to protect life, prevent injuries and all forms of abuse experienced by initiates before, during and after the customary practice of traditional male initiation. No stone should be left unturned to ensure that the traditional initiation practice is not exploited as a commercial enterprise used for personal enrichment at the expense of our children,” said MEC Xasa.
He sends his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and relatives of the deceased abakhwetha for the loss of their loved ones.
MEC Xasa called on all members of the monitoring teams to work harder for the safe passage of abakhwetha who still remain in the bush and are yet to be reunited with their families. He further pleaded with parents and men in particular to ensure that they continue to be visible in the initiation schools during this festive season and ensure that there are no more deaths and further injuries.
“We all have a responsibility in line with the provisions of the Customary Male Initiation Practice Act, 2016 to ensure that the teachings and rituals that are part of male initiation are aimed at character building to prepare the young boys for adulthood in a safe and secure environment,” said MEC Xasa. Ends.
Enquiries:
Mamnkeli Ngam
Cell: 071 685 7981
